I would like to comment on our recent survey question about conducting public events during the resurgence of the coronavirus. There are mixed emotions in our community about the cancellation of a full-blown Cherokee Indian Fair. It is the second year in a row, after decades of fall festivals, that we have had to close one of our most anticipated events.

Read 1 Peter 3:12, John 9:31

Congratulations to newly sworn-in members of the Swain County Board of Elections. Hannah Smith, an attorney and member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, was appointed chair by Governor Cooper.

Even in the heat of the final days of an election that will determine who sits in the most powerful seats of tribal government, and referendum questions that will determine one of the most hotly-debated issues on the Qualla Boundary, any push to get out the vote is met with a collective yawn.

Read Acts 4:23-31; Proverbs 21:2-3, Ephesians 3:12, Proverbs 28:1, Matthew 29:16.

“That really hit close to home.” You hear that every time a tragedy strikes a person or a community. Maybe it is a family member. Maybe a next-door neighbor. It could be a metaphoric statement, saying that you relate to what folks are going through. In some cases, it is literal.

“If the old life is dead, bury it,” Pastor Melton said, “for we have become new creatures in Christ Jesus.  There is a noticeable change that should make us more like Him every day as we become ‘more alive’ in Him.  In true Holiness, and becoming more powerful, too, we will need to trust Him as Lord, and our final Authority, seeking to understand His Word. 

How many of you have felt, at times, what you thought was an overwhelming sense of His Presence?  I came to an understanding in my personal time with the Lord, this week, when His Presence became so strong, I said, “I want to thank You for Your Presence here today.”